Hey Bulldog are the Irish, eco-friendly interior makers who we are currently lusting over. We met the DIY duo to talk reclaiming materials, sustainable inspiration and all things home-happiness.
Hey there Hey Bulldog! How are you guys? First of all, who are you? And how did you get into this? Tell us about yourselves!
We are Amanda and Joe! I (Amanda) studied Fine Art, and Joe studied engineering and sustainability, so between us we’ve always knocked ideas around, and eventually we decided to actually make them. I think we’ll always make things together, as we really love the process of making. It’s what makes us happy!
How would you describe your style of designs at Hey Bulldog?
We love to be playful. We’re all about transforming basic reclaimed materials into beautiful products. Playing and experimenting with these different materials is the start of our making process. it’s very exciting to see what will happen, and where it will lead.
GAFF is all about accessible and affordable homewares, creating a gorgeous look without having to sell your kidney to pay for it; who are you appealing to with Hey Bulldog?
We’re a match made in heaven! We totally agree. Why can’t beautiful homewares be accessible and affordable? We very much believe in surrounding ourselves with things that you love and make you happy, whether that be a gorgeous plant, a stunning lamp, or a mantra to hang on your wall.
What trends are you influenced and inspired by? You mention mid-century on your website ….
Yeah, we definitely love mid-century design so that would influence us a little bit. We’re also influenced by future-friendly design, meaning we focus a lot on eco-friendly and sustainable design. We love art installations we can lose ourselves in; pieces that stick in our minds from Cildo Meireles, Mona Hatoum, Anthony Gormley in particular. I wouldn’t say we follow trends so much, but my social media feeds would probably say something different!
How important is it to you to create timeless furniture and avoid being too trend lead (e.g we went a bit overboard on copper and now are a bit tired of it)?
It’s so very important for us to create pieces that last. We like to have fun with our designs, and create things that are fresh and unexpected. Products that make you really look at them, or allow you to be present, and put a smile on your face can only do good things.
Where do you shop yourself outside of Bulldog Design?
Oooh, we like to shop local where possible, so we like to buy from various markets in Dublin. Also, we try to buy from Irish designers online.
Where do you source your materials?
So, we source our bike wheels for our ‘I Travel Light’ lamp from Rothar in Dublin. They’re so supportive of our designs, and always lend a hand when we need more materials. For our wood products we used reclaimed wood such as pallets, and floorboards.
Any top tips for reclaiming old materials?
It’s very rewarding, but lots of hard work! Invest in a good face mask!
Go ahead and shop Hey Bulldog’s beautiful clocks, tables and accessories over on their Etsy store and see their website for more info.